Tips for launching your learning journey as an adult

If you’re an adult who is thinking about ways you can grow academically or professionally, you aren’t alone.

In fact, the majority of Kansas State University Olathe students are professional working adults who want to expand their career opportunities and deepen their knowledge. 

For many adults, the decision to return to school can be difficult. Juggling a busy work schedule, managing a household and taking care of a family is often challenging; however, it’s certainly possible to launch a learning journey even as an adult. 

Here’s what you need to know. 

Decide whether credit or noncredit is right for you 

When it comes to learning as an adult, you have a variety of options that include both credit and noncredit programming. You might be interested in taking the time to complete a graduate certificate or degree program; however, maybe you’re more interested in a noncredit short course. K-State Olathe offers both of these styles of programming designed to help support you in your educational journey. 

A degree or certificate program is the ideal choice if you want to advance in a specific career field, especially if it requires a specific degree, while a professional development short course is a great choice if you’re looking for a low-commitment option for enhancing your skills quickly or if you already have a degree but want a refresher. 

Focus on developing good study habits 

It’s essential that adult learners focus on developing good study skills to ensure you retain as much information as possible. Easy steps you can take include previewing materials before you attend a class, asking questions during each class session, participating in online discussion boards and contacting your instructor when you encounter material you don’t quite understand. 

Of course, it’s also helpful to set up regular study times for yourself. If you have a busy personal life, scheduling blocks of time where you simply focus on studying is a fantastic way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

Get involved 

As an adult learner, you may find that it’s challenging to get involved on campus when you’re juggling a busy life. Fortunately, whether you’re returning to college as a non-traditional student or pursuing professional development opportunities, you have a variety of ways you can get involved, including: 

• Networking events that enable you to connect with other professionals 
• Student gatherings where you can meet fellow classmates 
• On-campus activities designed to help you build a community 

Part of the learning experience is building relationships with colleagues, classmates and professors, so be sure to take the time to connect with those around you who are in the same field or studying in the same program as you. 

Set —and reevaluate — goals  

Be sure to set realistic goals for yourself that you can reevaluate as needed. Whether your goal is to complete a specific degree program, develop a professional skill or simply deepen your knowledge of a specific topic, understanding your goals will enable you to measure your own success. 

Other potential goals can include: 

• Studying rather than watching a favorite show 
• Completing the class reading prior to class 
• Finishing a paper before the deadline 
• Understanding the material well enough to ask questions during class 
• Attending professional development events that correlate with your program of study 
• Building relationships with your classmates 

And if you aren’t sure what good academic or professional goals are for yourself, don’t worry! Our Student Services Team can help point you in the right direction. You can reach out anytime to schedule a one-on-one meeting with a Student Success Coach who will answer your questions and guide you through your options.